Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context In biblical terms, "decreeing" refers to the act of issuing an authoritative command or order, often associated with divine authority. In the Scriptures, decrees are typically seen as binding and irrevocable, reflecting the sovereign will of God. The concept of decreeing is closely linked to God's omnipotence and His ability to bring about His purposes through His spoken word. Biblical Instances of Decreeing Throughout the Bible, decrees are issued by both God and human authorities. God's decrees are seen as eternal and unchangeable, reflecting His perfect wisdom and justice. Human decrees, on the other hand, are often temporal and subject to change, but they can still carry significant weight, especially when issued by kings or rulers. 1. Divine Decrees: · Creation: One of the most profound examples of God's decreeing power is found in the creation narrative. God speaks the universe into existence by His word. Genesis 1:3 states, "And God said, 'Let there be light,' and there was light." This demonstrates the power and authority of God's decrees in bringing forth creation. · Salvation and Judgment: God's decrees also pertain to salvation and judgment. In Ephesians 1:4-5 , it is written, "For He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless in His presence. In love He predestined us for adoption as His sons through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of His will." This passage highlights God's sovereign decree in the election and salvation of believers. · Prophecy: Prophetic declarations in the Bible often reflect God's decrees concerning future events. Isaiah 46:10 states, "I declare the end from the beginning, and ancient times from what is still to come. I say, 'My purpose will stand, and all My good pleasure I will accomplish.'" 2. Human Decrees: · Royal Decrees: In the ancient Near East, kings often issued decrees that were considered law. An example is found in the book of Esther, where King Ahasuerus issues a decree that cannot be revoked (Esther 8:8): "Now you may write in the king’s name as you please regarding the Jews, and seal it with the king’s signet ring; for a decree written in the king’s name and sealed with the king’s signet ring cannot be revoked." · Legal and Religious Decrees: In the New Testament, decrees also appear in the context of legal and religious rulings. Acts 16:4 mentions, "As they traveled from town to town, they delivered the decisions reached by the apostles and elders in Jerusalem for the people to obey." Theological Significance The concept of decreeing underscores the sovereignty and authority of God over all creation. It affirms that God's purposes are unthwartable and that His will is ultimately accomplished. For believers, understanding God's decrees provides assurance of His control over history and personal circumstances. It also emphasizes the importance of aligning oneself with God's will, as revealed through Scripture, prayer, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Practical Application In practical terms, the idea of decreeing can influence how believers pray and live. While humans do not possess the same authority as God, they are encouraged to pray in alignment with God's will, trusting in His sovereign power to bring about His purposes. This is reflected in the Lord's Prayer, where Jesus teaches His disciples to pray, "Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven" (Matthew 6:10). Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Decree.Library The Epistle of Adrian, Decreeing that we Should not be Punished ... Look at all that is Outward, and all that You Then See... Genesis. And Some Indeed, who are Used to Excuse their Own Sins... Christos Ho Logos Me Theoi Sarkoumenos. Ode V. Christos O Logos Me Theoi Sarkoumenos How Pope Gregory ix, who had Doubted of the Stigmata of St Francis ... Purposes of God. On the Decree of God Thesaurus Decreeing (3 Occurrences)...Decreeing (3 Occurrences). Proverbs 8:27 In His preparing the heavens I 'am' there, In His decreeing a circle on the face of the deep, (YLT). ... /d/decreeing.htm - 7k Decreed (33 Occurrences) Preparing (25 Occurrences) Decrees (131 Occurrences) Setting (82 Occurrences) Resources What does it mean to decree and declare? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was the First Great Awakening? What was the Second Great Awakening? | GotQuestions.org How are predestination and election connected with foreknowledge? | GotQuestions.org Decreeing: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Decreeing (3 Occurrences)Proverbs 8:27 Proverbs 8:29 Isaiah 10:1 Subtopics Related Terms |
    |